Things to Consider Before Having Skylights Installed

Skylights are great for adding natural lighting and warmth to your home, but getting them isn’t as simple as having holes punched in your roof and covering them in glass. In fact, there are some times when getting a skylight is not that easy. This is why our storm damage restoration experts have a rundown on things to check before getting them for your home.

Your Roof’s Frame

Some roofs are more suited to skylights than others. For example, stick-framed roofs are considered ideal because there’s plenty of space between the rafters. On the other hand, truss-framed roofs are too cramped to add skylights big enough to function efficiently. Consult with an expert to see if your roof is considered “skylight-friendly” before going through with the project.

Your Roof’s Slope

Vinyl window installation experts recommend checking the slope of your roof before having skylights installed. Moderate or steep-sloped roofs are perfect for skylights, while low-sloped ones will prolly require some modification (if possible, at all). Flat roofs are bad for skylights, because the lack of incline will cause water to pool up around the skylight’s frame.

The Type of Glazing

Skylights come in two popular types of glazing: glass and plastic. While glass is more expensive, it offers better durability, and provides a clearer view (which means more light passes through). On top of the glazing material, you also have to consider extra features such as laminates (more durability), low-E coating (to limit UV light) and gas fills (to provide better thermal control).

Consider Operable Options

Vinyl siding installation experts also recommend considering operable skylights. When fully opened, operable skylights add the benefit of providing extra ventilation for your home. However, you have to be very particular about the quality of an operable skylight; when fully closed, an operable skylight must form a watertight seal around its frame to prevent leaks during rainy days.


If you need help getting the right window for your room, we’ll be happy to help you out. Timberland Exteriors is the leading home remodeling company in St. Paul, MN and other parts of Minnesota. Call us at (651) 404-2330 or fill out this contact form to request for more info.

Schedule Your

Free Estimate

Contact Us

Convenient Financing Options

We Make Quality Exterior Remodeling Affordable

May 12, 2025
Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, providing protection from the elements and maintaining the integrity of your living space.
Two men are working on the roof of a house.
April 30, 2025
A roof is one of the most essential parts of your home. It keeps you protected from the elements and plays a critical role in the overall integrity of your house.
A group of people are standing in front of a house under construction.
May 8, 2024
Preparing your home for a roof installation is a crucial step to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Taking the time to get your home ready can significantly impact the efficiency and success of your roofing project.
A person is opening a window with a white handle.
April 26, 2024
In today’s environment-conscious market, energy-efficient windows have become a core component of home improvement projects, particularly in areas known for their harsh climates, such as Maplewood, MN.
A large white house with a black roof and red shutters
April 22, 2024
As the remnants of winter melt away and the first blooms of spring start gracing us in Maplewood, MN, it’s a signal for many homeowners to start contemplating home improvement projects that were put on hold during the colder months.
A blue house with white trim and a window
April 19, 2024
In the picturesque landscapes of Maplewood, MN, a home’s exterior is the visual handshake it extends to the neighborhood. Maintaining and enhancing the curb appeal of your property is crucial, not only for fostering a sense of pride but also for augmenting the value of your home.
Roof replacement
April 15, 2024
For homeowners in Maplewood, MN, and the surrounding areas, making decisions about roofing can be daunting. There’s a widespread practice known as a “roof-over,” where a new layer of shingles is installed over the existing one, which might seem cost-effective at first glance.
A large house with a large lawn and patio area in front of it.
March 29, 2024
One aspect that homeowners often overlook when tackling a siding installation or any home improvement project is the importance of a local contractor’s expertise.
An aerial view of a large house with a gray roof and blue shutters.
March 27, 2024
When embarking on a roofing project, the array of terminology used by professionals can sometimes be daunting. Understanding these terms is not just about making informed decisions for your home’s exterior but also about communicating effectively with your contractors.
A large house with a lush green lawn in front of it.
March 25, 2024
In the world of home improvement and design, a feature window isn’t just an opening in the wall; it’s a statement piece that transforms the aesthetics and functionality of your living spaces.
Show More